Family circus delights Marceline crowd

Wednesday

The Culpepper and Merriweather Great Combined Circus traveled to Marceline Sept. 3 to perform for local and area families.

The circus came for the fifth time in 10 years Monday to show Marceline all the tricks a circus family can perform.

Many Marceline and area families came to the old city airport just off of Highway 5 to see the Culpepper and Merriweather Great Combined Circus perform this Monday. The circus is stationed in Hugo, Ok., but travels the country each year. From April to November, the circus is putting on shows all across rural America.

The circus started in the 1980s when three friends decided to start their own show. They would take turns performing, announcing and selling concessions during the show. Some of that same energy can be seen while the circus is performing now, more than 30 years later.

Acts included the Arlise Troupe and their amazing unicycling skills, Trey Key who tamed three big cats in the center ring, Leo Acton the somewhat magical clown and Romario Perez and his tight wire act. Each of the performers have other duties as well, setting up the circus, announcing and selling concessions.

According to circus employee Alana Green, the circus is a unique experience.

“[Seeing the circus] is like going back in time,” Green said. “You’re right there, it’s intimate, wholesome family fun. It’s just a happy time for people and families to make memories together.”

Chris Ankeney Marceline Chamber of Commerce secretary treasurer says she wants people to experience the circus.

“We thought this was such a good idea we keep inviting them back to Marceline,” Ankeney said.

The Culpepper and Merriweather Circus performed twice Monday. The first show started at 2 p.m. and the second show started at 4 p.m. There was a full-house under the big top for the early performance.